The identification problem of the load parameters is the basis of researching the clutch control strategy and the shift schedule for heavy-duty AMT (Automated Mechanical Transmission). AMT is proposed as the soft starter for the belt conveyor which expands AMT application areas. In order to accomplish the goal of AMT as the soft starter, the load parameters estimation methods including the load resistance torque and the load inertia are firstly studied to accommodate the actual control for AMT startup as the soft starter for belt conveyor. In the paper, the estimation models of the load resistance torque and the load inertia are established during AMT startup for belt conveyor. On the basis of the recursion least squares method, the on-line estimations for the load parameters are recognized according to the test data during AMT startup. The estimation results of these two parameters prove that the load parameters estimation models and the estimation methods during AMT startup are valid.

Clutch control has a great effect on the starting quality and shifting quality of heavy-duty vehicles with automated mechanical transmission (AMT). The motion characteristics of a clutch actuator for heavy-duty vehicles with AMT are studied in this paper to investigate the clutch control strategy further. The modeling principle of the automatic clutch system is analyzed, and a simulation analysis is given to prove its validity and rationality. Normalized velocity and velocity modulation percentage are proposed as evaluation parameters for the clutch actuator driven by pulse width modulation (PWM) signals. Based on an AMT test bench, the actuator motion characteristics are analyzed. Experimental results show that the range of normalized velocity and velocity modulation percentage are obtained for the clutch engagement and disengagement processes. By analyzing the experimental data, the engaging velocity and disengaging velocity of the actuator are estimated using the solenoid valves in combination. The research results provide a fundamental basis for precise controlling of the clutch and improving the smoothness of heave-duty vehicles.